Five Eccentric Productivity Jump-Start Tricks

Posted on March 24, 2008 by LJ

Photo by Josh RothmanSometimes it is hard to get going. Like a battery left too long inactive in the cold, we can’t get started on what we need to do.

Everyone has their methods of getting started on a task.

Here are my five favorite:

#1: Use A Timer


For some reason, if I tell myself I only have to work on something for 15 minutes, and then I can go play, I get started and keep going. In order to do this, I use my trusty timer. Watching the clock doesn’t have the same effect as a timer for me. There are very few times where I truly want to stop after 15 minutes, but if I want to, I can.

#2: Use A Varied-Task Method

When I know I need to slog through a bunch of stuff, I use the (10+2)*5 method from 43 Folders. Using PDoan, I do 10 minutes on task, 2 minutes off, with 5 repetitions. I can get through a lot of stuff knowing I get 2 minute breaks to do anything I want.

#3: Shut Down Distractions

I am very distractable. If my task at hand involves the computer, I shut down distractions. If I am writing, I will generally use PageFour in full screen mode. If I am researching something, I use LeechBlock to block unwanted sites (like mail or RSS). I have even undocked and turned of WiFi when necessary.

#4: Use Batch Files

I am amazed at how well this trick works. I have set up batch files to bring up all the applications I need to perform certain tasks. With just those applications open, I crank through my work quickly. Monday night system maintenance, which used to take two hours, is now done in about twenty minutes.

#5: Rewards

When all else fails, promising myself a trip to Starbucks will get me to start just about anything I have been procrastinating on.

Photo by Josh Rothman

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    Comments (1)

     

    1. 8 Ideas (Plus One NEW!) To Lighten Your Schedule | SimpleProductivityBlog.com says:
      September 1, 2008 at 5:54 pm

      [...] Set time limits. Have you ever spent an entire evening doing something unintentionally? Something you only meant to do for 10 minutes? How about not getting started on something because you dread the task and can’t face doing it for an hour? Timers are great — they keep me on track and get me motivated (see Five Eccentric Productivity Jump-Start Tricks [...]